Let’s be real—most of us were never really taught how to take care of our contact lenses. We just figured it out as we went, right? Maybe you have reused solution, stretched a “monthly” lens a few extra days, or tossed your case in a bag and forgot about it.
At Lakeline Vision Source, we see this all the time—and we are here in Cedar Park to help you take the guesswork out of contact lens hygiene, so your eyes stay healthy, happy, and seeing clearly.
How to Properly Maintain Contact Lens Hygiene
Keeping your lenses clean is not just about comfort—it is about protecting your eyes from irritation, infections, and long-term damage. Here is how to make sure your routine is on point:
Wash Your Hands First—Always
Before you touch your lenses (or your eyes!), wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. Avoid using hand sanitizer right before handling your contacts—it can leave behind residue that irritates your eyes.
Use Fresh Solution Every Time
Reusing solution or “topping it off” may seem convenient, but it seriously increases your risk of eye infections. Always pour out old solution and use a fresh dose every time you store your lenses. And make sure you are using the right kind of solution recommended by your eye doctor.
Clean Your Lens Case Daily
It is easy to forget, but your case can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Rinse it with contact lens solution (not water), let it air dry, and replace the case every 1 to 3 months—or sooner if it starts looking funky.
Avoid Water Exposure
Never rinse your lenses or lens case with tap water, and avoid swimming or showering with your contacts in. Water can carry harmful microorganisms that can lead to serious infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Don’t Ignore Discomfort
If your lenses feel dry, gritty, or just “off,” take them out and give your eyes a break. Persistent discomfort could be a sign of dryness, or a poor lens fit—something our Cedar Park team can help with through dry eye treatment or a personalized contact lens fitting.
When to Replace Your Contact Lenses
Wearing lenses longer than recommended is like drinking expired milk—it might seem fine... until it’s not. Here is a quick guide:
- Daily lenses: Toss after one wear (yes, even if they "feel fine").
- Biweekly lenses: Replace every two weeks.
- Monthly lenses: One month and done—set a reminder in your phone if needed!
Old lenses can become breeding grounds for bacteria or develop tiny tears you can’t see. Not worth the risk! And if you are not sure what you are wearing or need a better fit, come see us for acontact lens fitting.
Get Help with Your Contact Lenses in Cedar Park
Your eyes are one of a kind—let’s keep them feeling fresh, healthy, and comfortable every day. Whether you need a new supply of lenses, have questions about hygiene, or want to try something new (like orthokeratology or myopia management), our friendly team at Lakeline Vision Source is here for you. Book your appointment in Cedar Park.